Livable Streets Workshop

Submitted by Rachel on Mon, 02/28/2011 - 12:06

Livable Streets Workshop, March 29!

People want to live in a vibrant community filled with opportunity. Part of that package is a city where people can safely get around, whether it’s by car, bicycle or foot—this is where the concept of Livable Streets comes in.

A livable street allows all residents to walk, bike or wheel to important destinations, and this will be the main topic of conversation on Tuesday, March 29, when the City of Kirksville Parks and Recreation Department and MU Extension host a Livable Streets Advocacy Training. This event is free and will take place from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Adair County Annex Building, 301 N. Franklin. After the training, there will be a City-sponsored Open House from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. to discuss the City of Kirksville’s Master Trail Plan and the proposed FLATS Trail.

“We are excited to be able to offer this free training,” said City of Kirksville Community Services Director Melanie Robinson-Smith. “Kirksville is actively working on the Master Trail Plan and the FLATS Trail plan. Being able to talk about all of these ideas and best practices will make for an energizing afternoon.”

Livable Streets is a design and planning approach that considers the needs of drivers, as well as the transportation needs of children and families, the disabled, seniors and bicyclists. Across the state, there is growing interest in applying Livable Streets elements to new planning and transportation projects, including those like the Master Trail Plan and the FLATS Trail. To date in Missouri, there are 11 communities that have passed Livable Streets or Complete Streets ordinances or policies. Communities can adopt these non-binding resolutions to help set policy directions and ensure safe access to physical activity for all residents, regardless of ability.

By implementing some of the ideas of Livable Streets, Kirksville residents could see additional health benefits.

Anyone interested in learning how to create a more walkable, bikable and accessible community is welcome to attend the free Livable Streets Advocacy Training. For more information, questions or to RSVP for this event, contact the Kirksville Parks and Recreation Department at (660) 627-1485.